12 month bar

J-1 and J-2 participants who have completed an exchange in J status in any category cannot return to the U.S. as J-1 Research Scholars or J-1 Professors for 12 months. This bar does not apply to short-term scholars.

24 month bar  

J-1 and J-2 participants who have completed a period of exchange in the J-1 Research Scholar or Professor category may not return to the U.S. in a J-1 Research Scholar or Professor category for 24 months.

Two year home return 212(e)

Certain J-1 and J-2 visitors will be subject to a two year home return after completion of the J-1 program. The requirement states that the two years in home country must be completed before returning to the U.S. in H, K, L, or permanent residence status. This requirement also prevents all changes of status to other categories within the U.S. Some J participants have been successful in obtaining a waiver.